Nournews: As Iran marked Arbaeen, the annual commemoration of the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), millions of people took part in the nationwide Arbaeen Walk for Those Unable to Travel to Karbala on Tuesday morning.
Participants gathered along designated routes to perform mourning rituals, recite the Arbaeen Pilgrimage Prayer (Ziyarat Arbaeen), and chant elegies in honor of Imam Hussein (AS). Many attendees also carried portraits of the late Leader and participated on his behalf in tribute to his memory. Others held images of the Supreme Leader as a sign of renewed allegiance.
Millions Join Tehran's Arbaeen Procession
In the capital, the procession began before dawn, with worshippers walking from Imam Hossein Square to the Shrine of Shah Abdol-Azim.
According to event organizers, more than 2.88 million people participated in the spiritual gathering. The 12-kilometer route was filled with families, religious organizations, volunteer groups, and people from all walks of life.
Special religious ceremonies—including the recitation of Ziyarat Arbaeen, eulogies, poetry readings, and narrations of the events of Ashura—were also held at Imam Hossein Square, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
1,200 Service Stations Along the Route
To support participants, 1,200 mawkibs (volunteer service stations) were established along the procession route.
Operated by community organizations, volunteer groups, and government agencies, these stations provided a wide range of services, including food and refreshments, medical assistance, cultural activities, children's programs, and rest areas.
Organizers stated that this year's stations were strategically positioned according to pilgrims' needs to improve both service efficiency and public safety.
Traffic Restrictions and Motorcycle Ban
Coinciding with the ceremony, Tehran Traffic Police implemented special traffic restrictions along the procession route.
The head of Tehran Traffic Police announced that motorcycles were prohibited from entering the procession route throughout the event. Motorists were advised to use alternative routes and follow police instructions to help ensure the orderly conduct of the ceremony.
A Symbol of Unity and Devotion
In recent years, the Arbaeen Walk for Those Unable to Travel to Karbala has become one of Iran's largest religious gatherings, attracting millions of devotees each year to commemorate the message and legacy of the Ashura uprising.
The simultaneous observance of the event across numerous cities reflects the unity, solidarity, and enduring devotion of the Iranian people to the culture of Ashura and Arbaeen.
Cultural Programs for Children and Youth
Throughout the procession route, a variety of educational and cultural programs were organized for participants of all ages.
Special cultural stations staffed by educators and volunteers offered activities for children and teenagers, including storytelling, arts and crafts, painting, and interactive presentations introducing religious and social values in engaging and creative ways.
Storybooks and coloring books centered on the themes of Arbaeen were also distributed to children as lasting mementos of the occasion.
Medical and Emergency Services
Given the large crowds and hot weather, the Tehran Red Crescent Society deployed medical tents and rapid response teams at multiple points along the route.
Emergency personnel provided first aid, wound care, blood pressure monitoring, and distributed hygiene supplies to participants throughout the event.
Volunteer Stations and Public Services
Extensive preparations were made to accommodate participants along the 12-kilometer route between Imam Hossein Square and the Shrine of Shah Abdol-Azim.
According to the organizing committee, 1,200 service stations were established to provide cultural, welfare, medical, and hospitality services. This exceeded the 700 stations initially registered with the Shah Abdol-Azim Shrine administration, reflecting broad participation by both public institutions and grassroots organizations.
These volunteer-operated stations offered a variety of services, including meals and refreshments, cultural exhibitions, health stations, and dedicated facilities for mothers and children, ensuring a comfortable and well-supported experience for participants.
Nournews